Are Co-Workers Impacting Your Stress Level?
We are fortunate to have jobs that allow us to provide for our families, but there are things that add to workplace stress. Here are tactful ways to address these issues.
The Noisemaker
A top pet peeve, according to a Harris Interactive and Randstad survey, is noise. The coworker that talks too loud when they are on the phone or when someone stops by their office. The file humming, whistling, finger tapping, and gum snapping behaviors can make for a long workday.
How to deal
Talk to the offender when they’re being loud, or as soon afterward as possible. They'll be more receptive to what you're saying if they can make the connection right then and there, as opposed to you randomly appearing at their desk to talk about it. Let the individual know how you're affected—that you have a difficult time concentrating when it's noisy, or that you're very easily distracted. Then it's less likely they'll become defensive.
The Sloppy Joe
This coworker is a bit of a slob, not in personal hygiene but in common work areas. They might leave exploded leftovers in the microwave or trash in the reception area.
How to deal
Chances are, more than one person is leaving messes, so first try placing a note in the kitchen area (or wherever the problem exists). Keep it light and funny. If the sign doesn't deter the behavior, suggest to the office manager or supervisor that everyone clean the common areas on a rotating basis. The idea is that people are less likely to leave a food mess on the counter if they'll eventually be responsible for cleaning it.
The Air Polluter
If someone's cologne, smoke stench, or food odor is bothering you, it's probably bothering others, too.
How to deal
If it's a persistent problem (as opposed to a onetime thing), it's best to bring it up in person and not via email. Use phrases such as 'I don't mean to offend you, but...' or ‘This is hard for me to say, but…’ Say that those spicy foods/perfumes, etc. smell delicious but the scent irritates your eyes.
The Credit Grabber
We survive and are rewarded at work based on accomplishments and recognition, so if someone takes credit for an idea, project, or sale that you worked on too, it not only feels unfair but can also be equivalent to grabbing the money you should have been paid for that work.
How to deal
If your boss has a special relationship with the credit hog—maybe a friend or protégé, and your manager wants them to get the credit—you'll probably have to bite your tongue. Be diplomatic but let people know the situation, especially if this isn't the first time the person has stepped on your toes. Don't put the person down, but allude to the fact that you worked on the project as well. Something along the lines of, "Jane did an awesome job on the research. It was a huge help to the rest of us in getting this done." Talk to the coworker one-on-one. Tell them that you'd appreciate it if they’d let the boss know that you deserve credit too. If she refuses, make it clear that you'll do it yourself, then, do it.
When things aren’t getting better, one may need to document what is happening and alert management. This documentation will help management understand the problem and deal with the offending co-worker effectively. Thus, the information you include must be detailed and organized.
How to Dial It Down
Breathe Deeply. Close your eyes and imagine a wonderful place.Take a walk.Think of 3 things that are going well for you.
Laugh, even if nothing is funny. You will find yourself smiling.Fake it until you make it.
Remember we all make mistakes.Try something new.Take a nap. Stretch. Plan ahead.
Look up at the sky- it really helps! Be as nice to you as you are to your family and friends.Hug yourself.
It is usually not as bad as you imagine. Phone a friend. Spend a few minutes outside.
Welcome surprises. Remember: You are not alone.Tell yourself, I can do this!Turn off your cell phone. Inhale, hold, and exhale.Ask for help. Make a list of things for which you are grateful and look at it once an hour. Slow down.Go to your happy place. Have the conversation you have been putting off. Start with “This is really hard for me to say but..” or “There is something I need to mention..”Make a To-DO list. Sing. Stop negative self-talk. Be flexible.Write in a journal. Don’t dwell in the negative.Read.Take a yoga class.Get a good night’s rest.Do something for someone else. Listen to your favorite music. Celebrate the weird.Watch a quick comedy sketch. Eat a healthy snack. Focus on the positive. Set aside relaxation time. Do something you enjoy every day.Drink Water.Keep your sense of humor. Clean your desk.Be optimistic. Write an email saying everything you feel, but don’t send it. Think progress not perfection.Keep a schedule.Do only one thing at a time. Shut your door.Stay objective.Eat breakfast.Lend an ear to someone who needs it. Clear your mind for a few minutes. Forgive others.Forgive yourself.Make time for lunch. Reduce caffeine and sugar. Tell someone thank you. Make a date with someone to do something fun.Breathe.
How to Dial It Up
Ignore your physical health – eat junk food regularly. Avoid exercise – it tires you out! Create debt – borrow frequently, repay slowly. Nourish grudges – remind people of their past mistakes. Search for bad news – if none available, create it. Whine often – it makes you feel better. Try to feel bad – stay angry, pout. Catch a contagious disease and share it with your friends. Get all you can before the selfish people do. Blame others for your problems. Be a martyr – let others know how much you suffer and sacrifice for them. Procrastinate. Avoid happy people at all costs – they might make you smile and feel better!